I believe the exterior of this building should be considered an historic asset and should be maintained as is.
I don’t know the exact date the building was built but surely it is a fine example of mid century design.

Metal blocks will replace the historic architectural element on the facade of the bank to deprive California Avenue of a much appreciated and admired feature. Why does this facade have to be dropped? Please do not tell me that it
does not complement SVBank’s identity. We need to preserve midcentury architecture and honor the contribution it makes to the California Avenue Business District and Palo Alto as well.

The building is UGLY.
Cheers to SVBank!

Banks are in need of more security. A bank with an atm at front is a magnet for someone to come with a truck and pull it out. Metal blocks prevent vehicles from getting too close.

Airports and other venues are putting up huge barriers to prevent vehicles from driving in and causing mayhem. Some airports are making passengers walk 100 yards from drop off zones to terminals.

Some banks are closing branches. It is good to see a new branch being opened in town.

I’m sure a design could accommodate ATM security needs without removing the upper mid century facade.

The proposed new design looks to be completely out of keeping and incongruous within the context of the other Cal Ave bldgs.

Glad to see this vacant building will get a new tenant. I don't view this building as a contributor to local architectural history. It's an example of midcentury design, but not such a great one that it warrants preservation, in my opinion. If you love it, you might take a picture to preserve it for your own viewing pleasure.

Those familiar with the Bank of the West buildings in downtown Los Altos and Mountain View will note that they share a similar architectural design.

The California Avenue Bank of the West branch was once The First National Bank (of San Jose) during the 1950s.

Whether it's an architectural treasure is strictly in the eyes of the beholder as there are some Palo Alto residents who consider the 1920s era Birge Clark 'Spanish Retro' designs (i.e. the Ross Building, President Hotel et al) tiresome and dated eyesores.

That bank building is so ugly. Maybe from the 50's when I was a kid.